Pronoun Resources

Here are some common pronouns and how to use them. Note that this is not an exhaustive list!

Note that someone may choose to use multiple pronouns - e.g. she/they - then use both in different sentences, on different days, etc. It is also becoming more common for people to use any pronouns. In either case, ask the person in a private setting how they would prefer you use their pronouns.

It is also important to recognize that while English uses gendered pronouns, not every language does and so there may be cultural differences when communicating.

• "What pronouns do you use? Do you have any preferences on when or how I use them?"
• "What pronouns would you like me to use for you?"

Or...

• Introduce yourself with your pronouns! This can create a safe environment for others to share their pronouns. For example, "I'm Dana and I use they/them pronouns. What about you?"

Pronouns can be a form of gender expression for people. Someone who identifies as nonbinary may want to use pronouns that do not express a feminine or masculine gender. While pronouns and gender can be connected for a person, knowing someone's pronouns does not mean that you know someone's gender identity and vice versa - knowing someone's gender does not mean that you know their pronouns. This is why it is always important to ask for someone's pronouns.

The goal is to avoid making assumptions about someone's pronouns. gender, etc. just by looking at them. These assumptions are usually based off of stereotypes that can be harmful.

Let's say you're talking to someone and refer to them using the wrong pronouns. It is important to address the issue and move forward from that moment. If you mess up, follow these steps:

1. Apologize - "I'm sorry for using the wrong pronouns."
2. Correct yourself - "THEY said this was important, not she."
3. Move forward in the conversation! It can be really awkward for the person you've just used the wrong pronouns for if you spend the next few minutes apologizing. Instead of making this moment about you, just correct yourself and move on.
4. Learn for next time! Spend some time practicing this person's pronouns so that next time, you don't use the wrong ones.

Being an advocate for LGBTQIAP+ people requires action. If you notice someone use the wrong pronouns, it is okay to correct them. Here are a couple of ways to intervene:

• "Hey, Sarah actually uses they/them pronouns."
• Correct the person in your next sentence: "Sarah is going to their office now."
• Simply saying the correct pronoun aloud, "They."

Remember, the goal is not to attack someone who does this, but to educate them. If the issue persists, then you may need to respond more firmly, such as "Sarah uses they/them pronouns and it's important not to misgender them."

You may have heard pronouns referred to as "Preferred Pronouns" in the past. This term is now outdated as someone's pronouns are not a preference and using them is not optional. Pronouns are an active representation of a person's identity. Instead of using this term, you can just use "Pronouns" to be more inclusive in your language.